Below are some top WWE news stories of the day, involving Damian Priest and SmackDown.
• WWE is gearing up for another clash between Gunther and Damian Priest for the World Heavyweight Championship, though the exact date of the bout is still unconfirmed.
On last week’s RAW, WWE hosted a Fatal 4-Way match to decide Gunther’s next challenger. The match featured Damian Priest, Dominik Mysterio, Seth Rollins, and Sheamus, with Priest emerging as the victor.
This win granted Priest the opportunity to face Gunther for the World Title, marking a rematch from SummerSlam 2024 when The Ring General won the title from Priest.
Previously, the Wrestling Observer indicated the match was anticipated for Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 14, although it could also occur at Survivor Series: WarGames on November 30.
According to WrestleVotes, if the match happens at Survivor Series, it could be a historic moment:
“If this match does take place at Survivor Series, Gunther vs. Damian Priest, it will be the first time in history the same World Title match happens at both SummerSlam and the Survivor Series in the same year.
So again, not announced yet where this Gunther vs. Damian Priest match is happening, but if it does, it will make some history.”
WATCH: Unseen Footage Of Rhea Ripley’s Buns Exposed At Elimination Chamber 2024 (Part 8):
• WWE’s flagship TV shows, RAW and SmackDown, are set for a major shift beginning January 2025, with both programs expanding to 3 hours each week, according to PWInsider. The move comes as WWE continues to adjust its format and programming strategies, likely aiming to capitalize on increased fan engagement and storytelling opportunities across both brands.
The extension, currently in the planning stages, will bring SmackDown in line with the format of RAW, which has been a three-hour program since July 23, 2012 (with the exception of October to December 2024 period).
While this change means more screen time for top WWE superstars, it also opens doors for fresh faces and potential storyline developments across each show.
Alongside the expanded time slots, WWE is reportedly considering adding talent from its NXT roster to SmackDown and RAW. This integration would give NXT superstars a chance to shine on WWE’s primary platforms, adding new dynamics and depth to the growing roster.
